With four ways to game in the living room or office, buyers have more options than ever before. Here's our quick guide to what separates one system from another.
by Russ Fisher
Once upon a time, gamers would choose a console based on the available software library, focusing on titles exclusive to their preferred platform. But console exclusives have largely gone by the wayside, as publishers chase the revenue potential of a cross-platform release. So, there are new factors to think about when choosing a console; price is paramount, of course, but so are the hardware's media capabilities and audio-video specs. But perhaps most important is that elusive characteristic: attitude.
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Microsoft Xbox 360
Back in black, the Xbox 360 Elite boasts a strong lineup
Price: $279.99 (Arcade); $349.99 (Premium); $449.99 (Elite)
Who needs it: The All-Around Gamer
The Basics
Microsoft's console is the most firmly established player in the game today, with a library of over 600 titles, an incentive-based achievement system, and a robust online service that enables multiplayer action and features both movie and game downloads.
Xbox Live has two tiers of membership, Silver (free) and Gold ($49.99/year), offering varying ways to meet and organize players online and download extra game content like maps. Some downloads are free, but others need to be purchased by spending Microsoft points ($1.25 for 100 points) which can be bought online or via gift cards available in stores. Xbox 360 systems come with either a 20 GB or 120 GB hard drive, and can be equipped with a wireless network adaptor ($99.99).
Media and Extended Entertainment Capabilities
The exact tech specs of the 360 are a little confusing. You'll find some consoles on shelves are equipped with an HDMI output port, to connect digitally to equipped televisions, while others only have analog video connections. All 360s currently rolling off Microsoft's production lines feature the new connector, which theoretically allows better visual quality on top-end TVs, but you might find some older stock here and there that predates the change-over. Regardless, the highest resolution available for games on the system is 1080p, and that's only supported by a handful of titles.
As you'd expect from a Microsoft product, the 360 networks quickly and easily with Windows XP or Vista PCs in your house, allowing the game console to play music and videos stored on your computer's hard drive. The HD-DVD add-on drive ($179.99) lets buyers get into the high-def format war with support for a growing library of HD-DVD titles. Beyond the basic gaming options on Xbox Live, users can download movies and television programs (fees vary) in either standard or high definition.
The Exclusive Games
Mass Effect: The brilliant team at BioWare redefines the action RPG with an interstellar tale featuring movie-quality acting and real consequences for your actions. This game is perfect for players who love story and narrative.
Halo 3: The world's biggest online console game features not only a new collection of maps, refines weapons and graphics, but the best way to capture and share your moments of triumph... and defeat.
BioShock: The creepiest story to hit gaming in years, this tense underwater tale features a widely configurable collection of 'genetic enhancements' and enemies you'll never forget.
